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Depression and Suicide

Topic Overview

Depression is a disease. It's caused by changes in
chemicals in the brain that are called neurotransmitters. Depression isn't a
character flaw, and it doesn't mean you are bad or weak. It doesn't mean you
are going crazy.

People who are very depressed can feel so bad that they
think about suicide. They may feel hopeless, helpless, and worthless. But most
people who think about suicide don't want to die. They may see suicide as a way
to solve a problem or end their pain.

What to watch for

It is hard to know if someone is
thinking about committing suicide. But past history or events may make suicide
more likely.

Planning to or saying he or she wants to hurt or kill himself or
herself or someone else.

Talking, writing, reading, or drawing about death, including
writing suicide notes and speaking of items that can cause physical harm, such
as pills, guns, or knives, especially if this behavior is new.

Saying he or she has no hope, feels trapped, or sees no point in
"going on."

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How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.